Get a slice of the action at restaurants with a sporty twist, says Catherine Whyte
The summer sporting season has landed. The World Cup is still kicking about, the Farnborough International Air Show is about to take off, and Coral-Eclipse Day will soon be under starters orders at Sandown. While strawberries may be the order of the day at Wimbledon, there are many other places you can dine while enjoying a slice of the action.
For lovers of all things aviation, Pilot’s Hub in Redhill Aerodrome is one of my favourites. It’s just so quirky and cool. Parked in a quiet corner of an old hanger, the 1930s aviation-themed bistro/café has both a comfy indoor area as well as a decked terrace on which to eat your homemade burgers, sandwiches and breakfasts while overlooking the commercial airfield. I just wish I lived closer (pilotshub.co.uk).
For a spot of luxury, head over to the Aviator – the only hotel on the perimeter of Farnborough Airport – and a prime spot to watch the Air Show action (July 16-22) while dining at the two AA Rosette brasserie. In addition, The Sky Bar is perfect for drinks and cocktails, and also makes a great setting for afternoon tea (£35 per head).
Go to: aviatorbytag.com
No round up of sporting restaurants in Surrey would be complete without a trip to the races. Equus at Sandown Park is the place to go for race-day dining with finishing-line views. Hospitality packages starting from £99 per person (sandown.thejockeyclub.co.uk). Over at Epsom Downs, The Rubbing House pub sits in a prime position on the racecourse (the only pub in the world that does, or so the website claims). While I can think of better places in the vicinity to eat, it’s certainly a good spot for a quick tipple.
Visit: therubbinghouse.com
I’ve covered cycling cafés in a past column so I’ll steer clear and focus on cars. The place to go for local fuel-filled fare is, obviously, Brooklands in Weybridge. There are two cafés at Mercedes-Benz World that overlook the track, but I’d hit the gas and make a beeline for 1907 Restaurant Bar and Grill (brooklandshotelsurrey.com), where the cocktails take pole position every time. Further afield, there’s only one place to go and that’s the Ace Café, on the North Circular near Wembley. It’s a 1950s-style diner in an old Art Deco building that has been a popular petrolhead hangout for years. These days, the biker contingent is diluted slightly by yummy mummies on their way to IKEA (it’s just down the road) and Surrey-based food writers (cough), but it’s still got a tank-full of authenticity and charm. Chow down a mountainous all-day breakfast while watching classic car meets on the forecourt or mods with their Vespas.
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